Ratchaburi: The Ministry of Culture is advancing efforts to recognize the "Nang Yai" traditional Thai shadow puppet art form from Wat Khanon, Ratchaburi Province, as an intangible cultural heritage in the UNESCO Register of Good Safeguarding Practices. The initiative aims to preserve and promote this unique cultural expression.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry is advocating for the registration of this art form, which has deep historical roots. Wat Khanon, historically a waterborne customs checkpoint during the Ayutthaya period, houses over 300 complete puppets crafted during King Rama V's reign by former abbot Luang Pu Klom. The site offers demonstrations of puppet making and performances, including "The Battle of Thotsakan: The Raising of the Army" by master craftsman Mr. Chalarun Thavornnukulapong.
Recently, Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, visited Wat Khanon to promote the registration effort. Accompanied by Phra Khru Phitak Silapakhom, the temple's abbot, and several officials and community leaders, Ms. Sabida underscored the significance of shadow puppetry, a performing art dating back to the Sukhothai period. The art form integrates painting, carving, dance, and classical music, vividly conveying stories through intricate performances.
The Ministry of Culture, recognizing the art form's importance, has supported the Wat Khanon Shadow Puppet Festival with funding since 2023. For the fiscal years 2025 and 2026, projects aimed at preserving and promoting shadow puppetry have been allocated 1.5 million baht each. These include international festival activities, workshops, and the production of an educational documentary series.
The Minister of Culture highlighted the Ministry's efforts to submit "The Community-based Revitalization of Nang Yai Tradition in Thailand (CRNT)" for UNESCO registration. This initiative, approved by the Cabinet in March 2026, is undergoing the registration process. The Ministry calls on local communities and leaders to foster the art form's preservation and ensure its sustainability for future generations.